US20140261588A1 - Limb-support assembly for use with an assistive device - Google Patents
Limb-support assembly for use with an assistive device Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20140261588A1 US20140261588A1 US13/801,359 US201313801359A US2014261588A1 US 20140261588 A1 US20140261588 A1 US 20140261588A1 US 201313801359 A US201313801359 A US 201313801359A US 2014261588 A1 US2014261588 A1 US 2014261588A1
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- United States
- Prior art keywords
- mounting
- limb
- assistive device
- support assembly
- weight
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
- A61H3/00—Appliances for aiding patients or disabled persons to walk about
- A61H3/02—Crutches
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
- A61H3/00—Appliances for aiding patients or disabled persons to walk about
- A61H3/02—Crutches
- A61H3/0288—Ferrules or tips therefor
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
- A61H3/00—Appliances for aiding patients or disabled persons to walk about
- A61H2003/002—Appliances for aiding patients or disabled persons to walk about with attached or incorporated article carrying means
- A61H2003/004—Trays
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
- A61H3/00—Appliances for aiding patients or disabled persons to walk about
- A61H2003/005—Appliances for aiding patients or disabled persons to walk about with knee, leg or stump rests
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
- A61H3/00—Appliances for aiding patients or disabled persons to walk about
- A61H2003/006—Appliances for aiding patients or disabled persons to walk about with forearm rests, i.e. for non-used arms
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
- A61H3/00—Appliances for aiding patients or disabled persons to walk about
- A61H3/02—Crutches
- A61H3/0277—Shock absorbers therefor
- A61H2003/0283—Shock absorbers therefor using elastomeric material
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
- Y10T29/00—Metal working
- Y10T29/49—Method of mechanical manufacture
- Y10T29/49826—Assembling or joining
Abstract
A limb-support assembly for use with an assistive device includes a weight-bearing member having a first edge. The weight-bearing member includes a planar receiving surface configured for receiving a user's lower limb. A mounting assembly is configured for removably coupling the weight-bearing member to an assistive device. The mounting assembly includes a first mounting brace extending outwardly from the first edge of the weight-bearing member and above the receiving surface. A mounting aperture is defined in the weight-bearing member between the first mounting brace and the receiving surface. The mounting aperture is configured for receiving a portion of the assistive device. When a portion of the assistive device is received by the mounting aperture, and when weight is placed on the receiving surface, the first mounting brace is configured to press against an opposing side of the assistive device from the receiving surface.
Description
- The present invention is directed to the area of assistive-device systems. The present invention is also directed to limb-support assemblies for coupling with assistive devices and providing limb support for users of the assistive devices, as well as methods of making and using the limb-support assemblies and assistive devices.
- People with a reduced ability to stand or walk may sometimes use assistive devices to facilitate mobility (e.g., standing, walking, or the like). Assistive devices may provide a rigid support for unburdening a person from at least a portion of their own weight, thereby enabling the user to stand or walk longer than they would otherwise be able.
- Non-limiting and non-exhaustive embodiments of the present invention are described with reference to the following drawings. In the drawings, like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout the various figures unless otherwise specified.
- For a better understanding of the present invention, reference will be made to the following Detailed Description, which is to be read in association with the accompanying drawings, wherein:
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FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view of one embodiment of a limb-support assembly coupled to an assistive device, according to the invention; -
FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view of one embodiment of a user using the assistive device ofFIG. 1 while resting one of her lower limbs on the limb-support assembly ofFIG. 1 that is coupled to the assistive device, according to the invention; -
FIG. 3 is a schematic exploded perspective view of one embodiment of the limb-support assembly ofFIG. 1 , according to the invention; -
FIG. 4 is a schematic perspective view of one embodiment of the limb-support assembly ofFIG. 3 , according to the invention; -
FIG. 5 is a schematic top view of another embodiment of a limb-support assembly having a first mounting brace and a weight-bearing member, where the first mounting brace is at least partially separable from the weight-bearing member, according to the invention; -
FIG. 6 is a schematic top view of yet another embodiment of a limb-support assembly having a first mounting brace and a weight-bearing member, where the first mounting brace is at least partially separable from the weight-bearing member, according to the invention; -
FIG. 7 is a schematic top view of another embodiment of a limb-support assembly having a first mounting brace and a weight-bearing member, where the first mounting brace is at least partially separable from the weight-bearing member, according to the invention; -
FIG. 8 is a schematic perspective view of one embodiment of the limb-support assembly ofFIG. 1 , the limb-support assembly including a weight-bearing member defining a utility aperture configured for receiving a carabineer, according to the invention; -
FIG. 9 is a schematic top view of one embodiment of the limb-support assembly ofFIG. 5 including a utility platform coupled to a first mounting brace of the limb-support assembly, according to the invention; -
FIG. 10 is a schematic perspective view of one embodiment of the limb-support assembly ofFIG. 9 coupled to the assistive device ofFIG. 1 , the limb-support assembly including a utility platform configured to receive a handbag, according to the invention; -
FIG. 11 is a schematic perspective view of one embodiment of the limb-support assembly ofFIG. 9 coupled to the assistive device ofFIG. 1 , the limb-support assembly including a utility platform configured to receive a grocery bag, according to the invention; and -
FIG. 12 is a schematic top view of one embodiment of a base tip of a base member of the assistive device ofFIG. 1 disposed in an insertion portion of a mounting aperture of the limb-support assembly ofFIG. 1 , according to the invention. - The present invention is directed to the area of assistive-device systems. The present invention is also directed to limb-support assemblies for coupling with assistive devices and providing limb support for users of the assistive devices, as well as methods of making and using the limb-support assemblies and assistive devices.
- Assistive devices include devices for assisting a user with standing, or walking, or both (e.g., crutches, canes, walkers, or the like). In some instances, assistive devices may be used as a single device (e.g., a cane, or the like). In other instances, assistive devices may be used in pairs (e.g., crutches, or the like). Assistive devices may include one or more base members and a body support assembly. The body support assembly may include one or more body supports (e.g., axillary supports, forearm supports, hand supports, or the like or combinations thereof). Optionally, the body support assembly may include one or more support members (e.g., first and second support members, or the like) that couple the one or more body supports to the one or more base members.
- Users of assistive devices may sometimes experience discomfort (e.g., pain, fatigue, or the like) when using the assistive devices. In some instances, the user discomfort may be alleviated by elevating a lower limb. Unfortunately, elevating a lower limb may involve removing the assistive devices and finding a suitable location to sit down with ample space to elevate the lower limb. Removing the assistive device and finding a suitable location to sit down and elevate the lower limb may be inconvenient, or not possible. In which case, the user of the assistive device may need to endure the discomfort for an extended period of time.
- As herein described, an assistive system includes a limb-support assembly coupleable to an assistive device. The limb-support assembly enables a user of an assistive device to elevate one of his or her lower limbs while using the assistive device. In at least some embodiments, the limb-support assembly is removably coupleable to the assistive device so that the user can use the limb-support assembly when desired, and remove the limb-support assembly when not desired. Additionally, when the limb-support assembly is coupled to an assistive device, the limb-support assembly may also be used as a portable seat to rest upon, or a platform to elevate a lower limb when sitting on a chair or bench.
- The limb-support assembly is consistently described herein as configured and arranged for coupling to a crutch with an axillary support. It will be understood that a crutch with an axillary support is merely used as an example of an assistive device to which the limb-support assembly is coupleable, and is not intended to be limiting.
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FIG. 1 illustrates one embodiment of anassistive system 100 that includes a limb-support assembly 101 coupled to acrutch 186. InFIG. 1 , thecrutch 186 is shown having afirst end portion 172, an opposingsecond end portion 174, alongitudinal axis 176, afirst side 178, and an opposingsecond side 180. A body support, such as anaxillary support 198, is disposed along thefirst end portion 172. One or more support members, such asfirst support member 194 andsecond support member 196, are coupled to thebody support 198 and extend longitudinally along thefirst end portion 172. Optionally, ahand support 188 is coupled to at least one of thefirst support member 194 or thesecond support member 196. - The
crutch 186 includes one or more base members, such asbase member 190, extending longitudinally along thesecond end portion 174. Thebase member 190 has a diameter 191. Thebase member 190 is coupled to one or more of thesupport beams assistive device 186 is formed such that thebase member 190 couples to thesupport beams overlapping region 142 where a portion of thebase member 190 is sandwiched between portions of thesupport beams - Optionally, a
base tip 192 is disposed at a lateral-most end of thebase member 190. In at least some embodiments, thebase tip 192 is permanently attached to thebase member 190. Thebase tip 192 may be formed from any material (e.g., rubber, plastic, or the like) suitable for absorbing shock during use of theassistive device 186 and also for providing protection for thebase member 190 from continual contact with the ground during use. In at least some embodiments, thebase tip 192 has a diameter (1299 inFIG. 12 ) that is larger than the diameter 191 of thebase member 190. -
FIG. 2 shows auser 200 using theassistive system 100. Alower limb 218 of theuser 200 is disposed on the limb-support assembly 101. InFIG. 2 , a distal portion (e.g., knee, shin, ankle, foot, or the like or combinations thereof) of the user'slower limb 218 is shown resting on the limb-support assembly 101 with the distal portion of the user'slower limb 218 extending in a direction that is perpendicular (or approximately perpendicular) to thelongitudinal axis 176 of theassistive device 186. In other words, the user's lower limb is elevated when thelongitudinal axis 176 of theassistive device 186 is in a vertical orientation. It may be advantageous for the limb-support assembly 101 to receive the user'slower limb 218 such that the distal portion of the user'slower limb 218 extends in a direction that is perpendicular (or approximately perpendicular) to thelongitudinal axis 176 of theassistive device 186 so that, during use of theassistive device 186, the distal portion of the user'slower limb 218 is elevated from the ground, thereby potentially reducing patient discomfort. Additionally, such positioning may prevent blood from pooling at the user's foot. -
FIGS. 1 and 2 (and other figures) show the assistive device as a single crutch. It will be understood that, in the case of crutches, a pair of crutches may often be used. It may be advantageous to use the limb-support assembly with multiple crutches (as well as with a single crutch) to facilitate distribution of a user's weight. Improved weight distribution may enhance balance and maneuverability. Improved weight distribution may also relieve pressure along the one or more body supports, such as the axillary supports 198, hand supports 188, or the like. - In at least some embodiments, the limb-
support assembly 101 is removably coupleable to theassistive device 186. In at least some embodiments, the positioning of the limb-support assembly 100 along thelongitudinal axis 176 of theassistive device 186 is adjustable. It may be advantageous for the positioning of the limb-support assembly 100 along thelongitudinal axis 176 of theassistive device 186 to be adjustable in order to comfortably accommodateusers 200 of various heights. -
FIG. 3 shows a schematic exploded perspective view of one embodiment of the limb-support assembly 101.FIG. 4 shows a schematic perspective view of one embodiment of the limb-support assembly 101.FIG. 12 shows a schematic top view of one embodiment of the limb-support assembly 101. - The limb-
support assembly 101 includes a weight-bearingmember 310 and a mountingassembly 350. The weight-bearingmember 310 is configured and arranged to receive a portion of a user's lower limb (see e.g., 218 inFIG. 2 ) and to elevate and provide physical support to the lower limb. The mountingassembly 350 is configured and arranged to couple the weight-bearingmember 310 to theassistive device 186. - The weight-bearing
member 310 has a perimeter that includes afirst edge 312. The weight-bearingmember 310 includes a receivingsurface 316 configured to receive the user's lower limb. In at least some embodiments, the receivingsurface 316 is planar (or substantially planar). In at least some embodiments, the weight-bearingmember 310 is configured and arranged such that, when the limb-support assembly 101 is coupled to theassistive device 186 the plane of the receivingsurface 316 is transverse to thelongitudinal axis 176 of theassistive device 186. Optionally, one ormore pads 320 are disposed over at least a portion of the receivingsurface 316 to promote user comfort when the user's lower limb is resting on the receivingsurface 316 of the weight-bearingmember 310. - The mounting
assembly 350 includes a mountingaperture 354 and a first mountingbrace 380. The mountingaperture 354 is configured and arranged for receiving a portion of theassistive device 186, such as thebase member 190, one or more of thesupport members base member 190 and one or more of thesupport members 194 and 196 (e.g., along the overlapping region 142). The mountingaperture 354 is positioned between the receivingsurface 316 and the first mountingbrace 380. In at least some embodiments, when the a portion of theassistive device 186 is received by the mountingaperture 354, the receivingsurface 316 is disposed along thefirst side 178 of theassistive device 186, while the first mountingbrace 380 is disposed along thesecond side 180 of theassistive device 186. - In at least some embodiments, the mounting
aperture 354 is disposed along the weight-bearingmember 310. In preferred embodiments, the mountingaperture 354 is disposed along the weight-bearingmember 310 such that the receivingsurface 316 has ample space for receiving the user'slower limb 218. In at least some embodiments, the mountingaperture 354 is positioned in proximity to thefirst edge 312 of the weight-bearingsurface 310. In at least some embodiments, the mountingaperture 354 at least partially abuts thefirst edge 312 of the weight-bearingsurface 310. - The first mounting
brace 380 abuts thefirst edge 312 of the weight-bearingmember 310. In at least some embodiments, the first mountingbrace 380 additionally abuts the mountingaperture 354. In at least some embodiments, the first mountingbrace 380 is continuous with the weight-bearingmember 310 such that the first mountingbrace 380 form a unitary, single-piece structure. - The first mounting
brace 380 extends outwardly from thefirst end 312 of the weight-bearingmember 310 above a plane formed by the receivingsurface 316 of the weight-bearingmember 310. In at least some embodiments, the first mountingbrace 380 is perpendicular to the receivingsurface 316. - As mentioned above, when the
assistive device 186 is received by the mountingaperture 354 the receivingsurface 316 is disposed along thefirst side 178 of the assistive device and the first mountingbrace 380 is disposed along thesecond side 180 of theassistive device 186. In at least some embodiments, when theassistive device 186 is received by the mountingaperture 354, and when theuser 200 places his or herlower limb 218 on the receivingsurface 316 of the weight-bearingmember 310, the weight of the user'slower limb 218 causes at least a portion of the first mountingbrace 380 to press against thesecond side 180 of theassistive device 186, thereby holding the limb-support assembly 101 in position relative to theassistive device 186. - As shown in
FIG. 1 , theassistive device 186 may include abase tip 192 with a diameter that is larger than a diameter of other portions of thebase member 190. In which case, the mounting aperture may need to accommodate the wider diameter of the base tip when inserting the assistive device into the mounting aperture. Once the assistive device is received by the mounting aperture, however, the wider diameter needed to accommodate the base tip may be undesirable during use of the assistive device because the wider diameter may reduce (or even prevent) retention of the assistive device by the limb-support assembly. - One way to deal with this problem is to include two portions in the mounting aperture; for example, a portion having a relatively-large diameter for use during insertion and removal of the assistive device; and another portion having a relatively-small width for retaining the assistive device during use. In which case, the assistive device may be inserted into the insertion portion of the mounting aperture, and then slid to the retention portion of the mounting aperture during use.
- In at least some embodiments, the mounting
aperture 354 includes aninsertion portion 366 and aretention portion 372 that are continuous with one another. Theinsertion portion 366 is configured and arranged to receive theassistive device 186 when theassistive device 186 is inserted into, or removed from, the limb-support assembly 101. In at least some embodiments, theinsertion portion 366 is configured to receive theassistive device 186 from thesecond end portion 174 of theassistive device 186 and slide along theassistive device 186 to a desired position along thelongitudinal axis 176 of theassistive device 186. - The
insertion portion 366 of the mountingaperture 354 has adiameter 368. In at least some embodiments, thediameter 368 of theinsertion portion 366 is larger than the diameter 191 of thebase member 190 of theassistive device 186. In at least some embodiments, thediameter 368 of theinsertion portion 366 is larger that a largest diameter of theassistive device 186 along thesecond end portion 174 of theassistive device 186.FIG. 12 shows thebase tip 192 of theassistive device 186 disposed in theinsertion portion 366 of the mountingaperture 354. Thebase tip 192 is shown inFIG. 12 as having adiameter 1299. As shown inFIG. 12 , in at least some embodiments thediameter 368 of theinsertion portion 366 is larger than thediameter 1299 of thebase tip 192 of theassistive device 186. - In at least some embodiments, once the
assistive device 186 is disposed in theinsertion portion 366 of the mountingaperture 354 beyond thebase tip 192, theassistive device 186 may be slid laterally with respect to thelongitudinal axis 176 of theassistive device 186 to dispose theassistive device 186 in theretention portion 372 of the mountingaperture 354. Theassistive device 186 may be adjusted to a desired position along thelongitudinal axis 176 of theassistive device 186 while theassistive device 186 is disposed in either theinsertion portion 366 or theretention portion 372. In at least some embodiments, the desired position along thelongitudinal axis 176 of theassistive device 186 may be disposed along the overlapping portion (142 inFIG. 1 ) of theassistive device 142. In which case, theassistive device 186 may only be able to slide into theretention portion 372 when theassistive device 186 is rotationally-oriented with respect to the limb-support assembly 101 such that theaxillary support 198 is parallel to the first mountingbrace 380. Having theaxillary support 198 parallel with the first mountingbrace 380 ensures that the limb-support assembly 101 is properly oriented with the opposing first andsecond sides assistive device 186. - The
retention portion 372 of the mountingaperture 354 has afirst edge 358 and an opposingsecond edge 362, where thesecond edge 362 is closer to the first mountingbrace 380 than thefirst edge 358. In at least some embodiments, the first mountingbrace 380 abuts thesecond edge 362 of theretention portion 372 of the mountingaperture 354. Theretention portion 372 is configured and arranged to receive theassistive device 186 such that thefirst side 178 of theassistive device 186 abuts thefirst edge 358 of theretention portion 372 and thesecond side 180 of theassistive device 186 abuts thesecond edge 362 of theretention portion 372. - The
retention portion 372 of the mountingaperture 354 has a width 374 forming the shortest distance between thefirst edge 358 and thesecond edge 362 of theretention portion 372. In at least some embodiments, the width 374 of the retention portion 374 is smaller than thediameter 368 of theinsertion portion 366. In at least some embodiments, the width 374 of the retention portion 374 is larger than the diameter 191 of thebase member 190 of theassistive device 186. In at least some embodiments, the width 374 of the retention portion 374 is smaller than thediameter 1299 of thebase tip 192 of theassistive device 186. In at least some embodiments, the width 374 of theretention portion 372 is larger than the diameter 191 of thebase member 190 of theassistive device 186 and smaller than thediameter 1299 of thebase tip 192 of theassistive device 186. - In at least some embodiments, the mounting
assembly 350 includes a second mountingbrace 390 for facilitating retention of theassistive device 186 when theassistive device 186 is received by theretention portion 372 of the mountingaperture 354. The second mountingbrace 390 may be used to increase the surface area abutting thefirst side 178 of the assistive device, thereby increasing the surface along which force is acted upon when weight is placed on the receivingsurface 316 and the first mountingbrace 380 is pressing against thesecond side 180 of theassistive device 186. - The second mounting
brace 390 extends outwardly from the weight-bearingmember 310 below a plane formed by the receivingsurface 316 of the weight-bearingmember 310. In at least some embodiments, the first mountingbrace 380 is perpendicular to the receivingsurface 316. In at least some embodiments, the second mountingbrace 390 abuts thefirst edge 358 of theretention portion 372 of the mountingaperture 354. - When the
assistive device 186 is received by the mountingaperture 354, the second mountingbrace 390 is disposed along thefirst side 178 of theassistive device 186. In at least some embodiments, when theassistive device 186 is received by the mountingaperture 354, and when theuser 200 places his or herlower limb 218 on the receivingsurface 316 of the weight-bearingmember 310, the weight of the user'slower limb 218 causes at least a portion of the second mountingbrace 390 to press against thefirst side 178 of theassistive device 186, thereby holding the limb-support assembly 101 in position relative to theassistive device 186. In at least some embodiments, one ormore mounting pads 394 are disposed along one or more surfaces of the second mountingbrace 390 that press against thefirst side 178 of theassistive device 186. - In at least some embodiments, the positioning of the limb-
support assembly 101 along thelongitudinal axis 176 of theassistive device 186 is retainable without force being applied to the weight-bearing surface. In at least some embodiments, the limb-support assembly 101 includes aclip assembly 330 for maintaining a desired positioning of the limb-support assembly 101 along thelongitudinal axis 176 of theassistive device 186. - The
clip assembly 330 can be configured in any suitable way to releasably maintain the positioning of the limb-support assembly 101 along thelongitudinal axis 176 of theassistive device 186. In at least some embodiments, theclip assembly 330 includes apivotable arm 332 and abiased pivot pin 334. In at least some embodiments, thebiased pivot pin 334 is biased by one or more springs. - The
pivotable arm 332 is configured and arranged to pivot along an axis formed by thebiased pivot pin 334 and apply a force against theassistive device 186 when theassistive device 186 is disposed in the mountingaperture 354. In at least some embodiments, thepivotable arm 332 is configured and arranged to apply force against thesecond side 180 of theassistive device 186. In at least some embodiments, thepivotable arm 332 is mounted to the first mountingbrace 380. In which case, theclip assembly 330 may include mounting features for mounting thepivotable arm 332 to the first mountingbrace 380, as well as for mounting thebiased pivot pin 334 to thepivotable arm 332. InFIG. 3 , the mounting features are shown as includingapertured brackets 336 disposed along thepivotable arm 332 andapertured brackets 338 insertable throughslits 342 defined in the first mountingbrace 380. - In at least some embodiments, when the
pivotable arm 332 applies a force against thesecond side 180 of theassistive device 186, the force is applied along a portion of theassistive device 186 that is extended beneath the receivingsurface 316 of the weight-bearingmember 310. In at least some embodiments, theclip assembly 330 works in cooperation with the second mountingbrace 390 to squeeze theassistive device 186 between thepivotable arm 332 and the second mountingbrace 390. In at least some embodiments, one ormore mounting pads 344 are disposed along one or more surfaces of the second mountingbrace 390 that press against thefirst side 178 of theassistive device 186. - In
FIGS. 3 , 4, and 12, the limb-support assembly is shown with the weight-bearing member and the first mounting brace formed as a unitary, single-piece, continuous structure.FIGS. 5-7 show several alternate embodiments of the limb-support assembly where the weight-bearing member and the first mounting brace are formed as separate, or at least partially separatable, elements that are coupleable to one another. In at least some embodiments, the mounting apertures shown inFIGS. 5-7 are partially disposed along the first mounting brace and partially disposed along the weight-bearing member. -
FIG. 5 shows a schematic top view of one embodiment of a multi-element limb-support assembly 501. The limb-support assembly 501 includes a weight-bearingmember 510 and a first mountingbrace 580 that is coupleable to the weight-bearingmember 510. InFIG. 5 , one or more fasteners 512 (e.g., screws, bolts, nails, pins, or the like) are shown that are insertable into fastener-receivingchannels 572 defined in the first mountingbrace 580, and fastener-receivingchannels 574 defined in the weight-bearingmember 510. - A mounting
aperture 554 is defined in the limb-support assembly 501. In at least some embodiments, the mountingaperture 554 is entirely disposed along the first mountingbrace 580. In at least some embodiments, the mountingaperture 554 is entirely disposed along the weight-bearingmember 510. In at least some embodiments, the mountingaperture 554 is partially disposed along the first mountingbrace 580 and partially disposed along the weight-bearingmember 510. In which case, the mountingaperture 554 is not completely enclosed until the weight-bearingmember 510 and the first mountingbrace 580 are coupled together. -
FIG. 6 shows a schematic top view of another embodiment of a multi-element limb-support assembly 601. The limb-support assembly 601 includes a weight-bearingmember 610 and a first mountingbrace 680. InFIG. 6 , the first mountingbrace 680 is coupled to the weight-bearingmember 610 via ahinge 638. The first mountingbrace 680 is pivotable along thehinge 638 to transition between an open position (as shown inFIG. 6 ) and a closed position (where the first mountingbrace 680 and the weight-bearingmember 610 abut one another along a length). - A mounting
aperture 654 is defined in the limb-support assembly 601. In at least some embodiments, the mountingaperture 654 is entirely disposed along the first mountingbrace 680. In at least some embodiments, the mountingaperture 654 is entirely disposed along the weight-bearingmember 610. In at least some embodiments, the mountingaperture 654 is partially disposed along the first mountingbrace 680 and partially disposed along the weight-bearingmember 610. In which case, the mountingaperture 654 is not completely enclosed until the weight-bearingmember 610 and the first mountingbrace 680 are coupled together (i.e., when the first mountingbrace 680 is pivoted to a closed position). - In at least some embodiments, the limb-
support assembly 601 includes a retention system for removably retaining the limb-support assembly 601 in a closed position. InFIG. 6 , the retention system is shown as abuckle 654 and abuckle latch 644 configured and arranged to mate with thebuckle 654, where thebuckle 654 is disposed on one of the first mountingbrace 680 or the weight-bearingmember 610, and thebuckle latch 644 is disposed on the other of the first mountingbrace 680 or the weight-bearingmember 610. -
FIG. 7 shows a schematic top view of yet another embodiment of a multi-element limb-support assembly 701. The limb-support assembly 701 includes a weight-bearingmember 710 and a first mountingbrace 780. InFIG. 7 , one or more biasing elements, such assprings 738, are disposed along abutting surfaces of the weight-bearingmember 710 and the first mountingbrace 780. The biasingelements 738 are configured and arranged to maintain the weight-bearingmember 710 and the first mountingbrace 780 coupled to one another unless a force is applied to one or more of the weight-bearingmember 710 or the first mounting brace 780 (or both) to separate the two from one another (as shown inFIG. 7 ). - A mounting
aperture 754 is defined in the limb-support assembly 701. In at least some embodiments, the mountingaperture 754 is entirely disposed along the first mountingbrace 780. In at least some embodiments, the mountingaperture 754 is entirely disposed along the weight-bearingmember 710. In at least some embodiments, the mountingaperture 754 is partially disposed along the first mountingbrace 780 and partially disposed along the weight-bearingmember 710. In which case, the mountingaperture 754 is not completely enclosed until the weight-bearingmember 710 and the first mountingbrace 780 are coupled together. - In each of
FIGS. 5-7 , the mounting aperture is shown partially disposed along the first mounting brace and partially disposed along the weight-bearing member. It may be advantageous to form the mounting aperture such that it is partially disposed on each of the first mounting brace and the weight-bearing member to enable the limb-support member to be used with assistive devices having an oversized base tip, or base member, or other portion, that would be too large to fit in the mounting aperture without partially separating the opposing sides of the mounting aperture, thereby widening the mounting aperture enough to accommodate the assistive device. - Turning to
FIGS. 8-11 , in at least some embodiments the limb-support assembly is configured and arranged to receive one or more items in addition to the lower limb of the user.FIG. 8 shows a perspective view of one embodiment of the limb-support assembly 101 that includes one ormore utility apertures 860. The utility aperture(s) 806 may be defined along any suitable portion of the limb-support assembly 101 including, for example, the weight-bearing member, the first support brace, the second support brace, the clip assembly, or the like or combinations thereof. InFIG. 8 , theutility aperture 860 is shown disposed along thefirst receiving surface 316 of the weight-bearingmember 310. - The
utility aperture 860 can be formed with any suitable diameter. InFIG. 8 , theutility aperture 860 is sized to receive acarabineer 862. Alternately, theutility aperture 860 is configured and arranged to receive one or more key rings, hooks, chains, latches, fobs, or the like or combinations thereof. -
FIG. 9 shows a perspective view of one embodiment of the limb-support assembly 501 with autility platform 970 disposed along the first mountingbrace 580. In at least some embodiments, theutility platform 970 is removable. In at least some embodiments, theutility platform 970 is used in lieu of theclip assembly 330. In at least some embodiments, theutility platform 970 is rigidly coupled to thepivotable arm 332 of theclip assembly 330 such that the user may pivot thepivotable arm 332 via theutility platform 970. Alternately, in at least some embodiments the limb-support assembly 501 includes both theclip assembly 330 and theutility platform 970. - In at least some embodiments, the
utility platform 970 is foldable such that when in use, theutility platform 970 extends substantially in a plane parallel to a plane of the receivingsurface 516 of the limb-support assembly 501, while when not in use, theutility platform 970 folds along a hinge, not shown, to lie substantially perpendicular to the plane of the receivingsurface 516. Theutility platform 970 may be configured and arranged to hold any suitable number of items including, for example, sunglasses, mobile devices, handbags (see e.g.,FIG. 10 ), grocery bags (see e.g.,FIG. 11 ), backpacks, or the like or combinations thereof, while the user uses theassistive device 186 to which the limb-support assembly is attached. - The
utility platform 970 may, optionally, include agripping surface 972 to place objects upon. Thegripping surface 972 may include a gripping texture that increases the gripping friction between theutility platform 970 and the objects placed upon it. Thegripping surface 972 may be fabricated from rubber, plastic, or any other such materials that may provide gripping friction. The gripping texture may include dimples or other features that increase the gripping friction. Theutility platform 970 may, optionally, include alip 974 around at least one edge of theutility platform 970 that may prevent an object from falling from theutility platform 970. Optionally, a smooth ordecorative surface 976 may surround thegripping surface 972. -
FIG. 10 is a schematic perspective view of one embodiment of the limb-support assembly 501 coupled to theassistive device 186. The limb-support assembly 501 includes theutility platform 970 attached thereto. Theutility platform 970 includes thelip 974. Ahandbag 1080 is shown inFIG. 10 hanging from theutility platform 970 and prevented from sliding off of the utility platform by thelip 974. -
FIG. 11 is a schematic perspective view of one embodiment of the limb-support assembly 501 coupled to theassistive device 186. The limb-support assembly 501 includes theutility platform 970 attached thereto. Theutility platform 970 includes thelip 974. Agrocery bag 1180 is shown inFIG. 11 resting on theutility platform 970 and prevented from sliding off of the utility platform by thelip 974. - The above specification, examples and data provide a description of the manufacture and use of the composition of the invention. Since many embodiments of the invention can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, the invention also resides in the claims hereinafter appended.
Claims (21)
1. A limb-support assembly adapted for use with an assistive device, the limb-support assembly comprising:
a weight-bearing member having a perimeter with a first edge, the weight-bearing member comprising a planar receiving surface configured and arranged for receiving a portion of a lower limb of a user; and
a mounting assembly configured and arranged for removably coupling the weight-bearing member to an assistive device, the mounting assembly comprising
a first mounting brace extending outwardly from the first edge of the weight-bearing member with the first mounting brace extending above the receiving surface, and
a mounting aperture defined in the weight-bearing member between the first mounting brace and the receiving surface, the mounting aperture configured and arranged for receiving a portion of the assistive device.
2. The limb-support assembly of claim 1 , wherein when a portion of the assistive device is received by the mounting aperture, and when weight is placed on the receiving surface, the first mounting brace is configured and arranged to press against an opposing side of the assistive device from the receiving surface to retain the positioning of the assistive device relative to the limb-support assembly.
3. The limb-support assembly of claim 1 , wherein the first mounting brace extends outwardly from the first edge of the weight-bearing member in a direction that is perpendicular to the receiving surface.
4. The limb-support assembly of claim 1 , wherein the first mounting brace abuts the mounting aperture.
5. The limb-support assembly of claim 1 , wherein the mounting aperture comprises an insertion portion and a retention portion continuous with the insertion portion, the retention portion having first and second opposing edges.
6. The limb-support assembly of claim 5 , wherein the second edge of the retention portion abuts the first mounting brace.
7. The limb-support assembly of claim 1 , further comprising a second mounting brace extending outwardly from a first edge of a retention portion of the mounting aperture.
8. The limb-support assembly of claim 1 , wherein a second mounting brace extends outwardly from a first edge of a retention portion of the mounting aperture in a direction that is perpendicular to the receiving surface.
9. The limb-support assembly of claim 1 , wherein when a portion of the assistive device is received by the mounting aperture, and when weight is placed on the receiving surface of the weight-bearing member, a second mounting brace is configured and arranged to press against the same side of the assistive device as the weight-bearing member.
10. The limb-support assembly of claim 1 , wherein a second mounting brace extends outwardly from a first edge of a retention portion of the mounting aperture beneath the receiving surface of the weight-bearing member.
11. The limb-support assembly of claim 1 , further comprising a clip assembly for facilitating removable retention of the limb-support assembly along a longitudinal axis of the assistive device when the assistive device is received by the mounting aperture.
12. The limb-support assembly of claim 11 , wherein the clip assembly is mounted to the first mounting brace.
13. The limb-support assembly of claim 11 , wherein the clip assembly comprises a pivotable arm extending beneath the receiving surface.
14. The limb-support assembly of claim 11 , wherein the clip assembly comprises a pivotable arm configured and arranged to apply a force against the assistive device when the assistive device is received by the mounting aperture, the applied force squeezing the assistive device between the pivotable arm and a second mounting brace.
15. An assistive system comprising
an assistive device for facilitating mobility of a user, the assistive device having a first side, an opposing second side, and a longitudinal axis, the assistive device comprising
a body support assembly comprising at least one body support, and
a base member coupled to the body support assembly, the base member having a first end and a base-member diameter; and
a limb-support assembly removably coupleable to the assistive device, the limb-support assembly comprising:
a weight-bearing member comprising a planar receiving surface, the receiving surface configured and arranged for receiving a portion of a lower limb of the user, and
a mounting assembly configured and arranged for removably coupling the weight-bearing member to the assistive device, the mounting assembly comprising a first mounting brace extending outwardly from a first edge of the weight-bearing member with the first mounting brace extending above the receiving surface, and a mounting aperture defined in the weight-bearing member between the first mounting brace and the receiving surface, the mounting aperture configured and arranged for receiving a portion of the assistive device with the first side of the assistive device abutting the receiving surface and the second side of the assistive device abutting the first mounting brace.
16. The assistive system of claim 15 , wherein the assistive device further comprises a base tip disposed at the first end of the base member, the base tip having a base-tip diameter that is larger than the base-member diameter.
17. The assistive system of claim 15 , wherein the mounting aperture comprises an insertion portion and a retention portion that is continuous with the insertion portion.
18. The assistive system of claim 15 , further comprising a base tip disposed at the first end of the base member, wherein the mounting aperture comprises an insertion portion having a diameter that is larger than a diameter of the base tip.
19. The assistive system of claim 15 , further comprising a base tip disposed at the first end of the base member, wherein the mounting aperture comprises a retention portion having a width that is smaller than a diameter of the base tip.
20. The assistive system of claim 15 , further comprising a base tip disposed at the first end of the base member, wherein the mounting aperture comprises a retention portion having a width that is smaller than a diameter of the base tip and larger than the base-member diameter.
21. A method for attaching a limb-support assembly to an assistive device, the method comprising:
providing an assistive device for facilitating mobility of a user, the assistive device comprising a base member;
providing a limb-support assembly comprising a weight-bearing member and a mounting assembly, the mounting assembly comprising a mounting aperture and a first mounting brace extending outwardly from a first edge of the mounting aperture above a limb-receiving surface of the weight-bearing member;
extending the base member of the assistive device through an insertion portion of the mounting aperture;
sliding the limb-support assembly along a longitudinal length of the assistive device to a desired location along the base member; and
sliding the base member along the mounting aperture from the insertion portion to a retention portion of the mounting aperture.
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US13/801,359 US9072649B2 (en) | 2013-03-13 | 2013-03-13 | Limb-support assembly for use with an assistive device |
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US13/801,359 US9072649B2 (en) | 2013-03-13 | 2013-03-13 | Limb-support assembly for use with an assistive device |
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US20140261588A1 true US20140261588A1 (en) | 2014-09-18 |
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US13/801,359 Active 2033-07-18 US9072649B2 (en) | 2013-03-13 | 2013-03-13 | Limb-support assembly for use with an assistive device |
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US10092475B2 (en) * | 2016-04-08 | 2018-10-09 | Philip Smith | Combination crutch and knee walker device |
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JP7129128B2 (en) | 2018-10-03 | 2022-09-01 | 稔 北川 | Cane seat plate |
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